How much have rates increased this week, and which trade lanes are most affected?

Container rates spiked $1,000–$1,800 per FEU between May 31 and early June following June 1 GRIs and PSS implementations. Asia-Europe routes are most severely impacted, having already exceeded last June–July peak season highs. Trans-Pacific routes average $3,200–$5,000 per FEU to US coasts (up approximately 20% year-over-year), while Asia-Europe routes reached $4,000–$4,400 per FEU.

What is driving the rate spikes beyond typical peak season demand?

Three factors are converging: (1) the ongoing Iran-induced Strait of Hormuz closure, which has kept baseline rates elevated through fuel surcharges for approximately 100 days; (2) early peak season demand as retailers bring in holiday inventory; and (3) deliberately tightened space allocations and premium surcharges announced by carriers. Additional increases from CMA CGM, Maersk, and others are planned for mid-June.

Is the trans-Pacific market expected to reach 2025 frontloading levels?

The article indicates trans-Pacific routes are currently $1,000 per FEU below the frontloading highs observed in 2025 when importers rushed to beat tariffs. If geopolitical tensions persist or demand accelerates, rates could close this gap. Analysts note spot rates have climbed approximately 15% through May and are now spiking sharply.

What operational impacts should shippers anticipate?

Shippers should expect space allocation reductions, premium surcharges, and further rate increases through mid-June. The Freightos analyst noted that contracted shippers have already been whipsawed by premium charges and reduced allocations. Additionally, the U.S. lifted hours-of-service restrictions for truck drivers hauling fertilizer to offset diminished ocean supply from the Middle East.

How does the Strait of Hormuz closure affect long-term rate forecasts?

The closure has been sustained for approximately 100 days with no clear resolution after U.S. President Trump stated he 'couldn't care less' about ceasefire negotiations. This structural uncertainty suggests elevated baseline rates may persist beyond typical seasonal patterns, potentially through mid-2024 and beyond, adding premium risk to forward contracting.

Shipping & Freight

High Impact

Container Rates Jump $1,000+ Per Box as Peak Season Kicks Off

Jun 2, 2026

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The signal

Ocean container rates have surged by $1,000 to $1,800 per forty-foot equivalent unit (FEU) in a single week following June 1 general rate increases (GRIs) and peak season surcharges (PSS) implemented by major carriers including MSC, CMA CGM, and Maersk. The sharp spike reflects a convergence of three pressures: elevated baseline rates driven by the Iran-induced Strait of Hormuz closure and higher fuel costs, the onset of early peak season demand as retailers frontload holiday inventory, and tightening container availability on major trade lanes. The article reveals geographic disparities in rate escalation. Asia-West Coast routes now average approximately $4,000–$4,200 per FEU (up from $3,200), while Asia-East Coast routes have reached $6,000–$6,800 per FEU (up from $5,000).

Asia-Europe rates have already exceeded last year's peak season highs, reaching levels around $4,000–$4,400 per FEU. Notably, trans-Pacific routes remain about $1,000 per FEU below 2025 frontloading peaks, suggesting room for further escalation if geopolitical tensions persist or demand accelerates. For supply chain professionals, this development signals a critical juncture. Shippers face compressed windows to lock in contract rates before mid-month increases take effect.

Those with flexibility should evaluate alternative routing options, nearshoring strategies, or inventory timing adjustments. The geopolitical component—reflected in the ongoing Strait of Hormuz closure and vessel attacks—adds structural risk that transcends typical seasonal cyclicality, potentially extending elevated rates beyond Q3.

#supply-chain-disruption

#freight-cost-inflation

#asia-europe-rates

#transpacific-shipping

#gri-pss-charges

#geopolitical-risk

Frequently Asked Questions

What This Means for Your Supply Chain

Simulation Suggestion

strategic

What if Strait of Hormuz remains closed for six more months?

Simulate sustained 15–20% fuel surcharges on all Asia-Europe and East Coast routes through Q4 2024, with baseline container rates holding 10–15% above 2023 levels. Model inventory carrying costs, expedited sourcing from alternative suppliers, and nearshoring scenarios.

Run this scenario

Simulation Suggestion

this week

What if additional carriers announce mid-June rate increases of $800+ per FEU?

Build scenario with cumulative mid-June GRIs totaling $800–$1,200 per FEU on top of early-June spikes. Model P&L impact for shippers with fixed-price retail commitments, buyer behavior shifts toward nearshoring or air freight alternatives, and cash flow implications.

Run this scenario

Simulation Suggestion

this month

What if peak season demand spikes 30% faster than historical averages?

Model accelerated holiday season inventory frontloading with demand concentrated in June–July rather than spread across June–September. Simulate container availability constraints, quote-to-book ratios, and service level failures under space-rationed allocations.

Run this scenario

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